Breathing in xenon: a new MRI scan to see lung damage?

NCT ID NCT05241275

Ongoing Knowledge-focused Sponsor: Duke University Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study at Duke University tests whether a special MRI scan using inhaled xenon gas can detect changes in lung function over time in people with progressive pulmonary fibrosis. Sixty adults with various types of lung scarring will have MRI scans before starting anti-fibrotic medication and again at 3, 6, and 12 months. The goal is to see if this imaging method can measure how the lungs respond to treatment.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: Hyperpolarized 129 Xenon gas (used as an imaging agent for MRI)
What this could lead to: If successful, this could provide a new way to monitor lung disease progression and treatment response without invasive tests.
What could go wrong: This is a small, early-phase study (60 people) at one center. The imaging technique is experimental and may not prove reliable or widely usable.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

autoimmune interstitial lung disease-arthritis syndrome fibrotic hypersensitivity pneumonitis hypersensitivity pneumonitis idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis mixed connective tissue disease non-specific interstitial pneumonia pulmonary fibrosis pulmonary systemic sclerosis rheumatoid arthritis-associated interstitial lung disease

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

IDIOPATHIC PULMONARY FIBROSIS PROGRESSIVE PULMONARY FIBROSIS

Contacts and locations

Locations

Duke University

Durham, North Carolina, 27710, United States

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